In 15 Seconds
- A more elegant version of 'now' for specific moments.
- Perfect for storytelling, speeches, and expressing deep emotions.
- Often expanded to '此时此刻' for extra dramatic emphasis.
Meaning
It simply means 'at this moment' or 'right now.' It is a more elegant way to point to the current point in time compared to the basic everyday word for 'now.'
Key Examples
3 of 6Watching a sunset with a partner
此时的景色真美。
The scenery at this moment is truly beautiful.
Starting a formal presentation
此时，我想分享一个故事。
At this moment, I would like to share a story.
Texting a friend about a busy day
我此时正在加班，晚点联系。
I'm working overtime at this moment, let's talk later.
Cultural Background
The character '此' (cǐ) is a formal way to say 'this,' often found in classical texts. Using it instead of '这' (zhè) instantly elevates your speech, reflecting the Chinese value of literary elegance even in modern conversation. It is frequently used in 'Chengyu' (four-character idioms) to emphasize the fleeting nature of time.
The 'Storyteller' Vibe
Use `此时` when you want to sound like the narrator of your own life. It makes even small moments feel like a scene from a movie.
Don't Overdo It
If you use `此时` for every single sentence, you'll sound like you're reading a historical novel. Mix it with `现在` for a natural flow.
In 15 Seconds
- A more elegant version of 'now' for specific moments.
- Perfect for storytelling, speeches, and expressing deep emotions.
- Often expanded to '此时此刻' for extra dramatic emphasis.
What It Means
此时 is a beautiful, concise way to say 'at this moment.' It combines 此 (this) and 时 (time). It feels a bit more polished than the common 现在. Think of it as the difference between saying 'right now' and 'at this very moment.' It focuses on the specific slice of time you are currently experiencing.
How To Use It
You usually place 此时 at the beginning of a sentence or right before the verb. It sets the stage for what is happening. Use it when you want to sound a bit more thoughtful or descriptive. It is perfect for storytelling or expressing deep feelings. It works like a camera lens focusing on the present scene.
When To Use It
Use it when you are witnessing a beautiful sunset with a friend. It is great for formal speeches to grab the audience's attention. Use it in writing to make your prose sound more professional. It is also perfect for those 'deep' late-night texts about life. If you are describing a dramatic turning point, this is your word.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it for mundane, repetitive tasks. If you are just saying 'I'm eating now,' stick to 现在. Using 此时 for a quick lunch feels like you are narrating a movie about a sandwich. Avoid it in very fast, slang-heavy conversations. It might feel a bit too 'poetic' for a loud bar. Also, don't use it for the future or past.
Cultural Background
This phrase has roots in classical Chinese literature. In ancient poems, poets used 此 to ground the reader in the 'here and now.' It carries a sense of mindfulness that is very valued in Chinese culture. It suggests that this specific moment is unique and won't happen again. It is a favorite in Mandopop song lyrics for building emotional tension.
Common Variations
You will often see it paired as 此时此刻 (at this very moment). This four-character version is even more emphatic and emotional. Another variation is 此时此地, which means 'this time and this place.' These variations add weight to your words. They make you sound like a native speaker who appreciates the nuance of the language.
Usage Notes
While '此时' is neutral enough for daily use, it carries a literary weight. It is best used when you want to emphasize the 'feeling' of the present moment rather than just the clock time.
The 'Storyteller' Vibe
Use `此时` when you want to sound like the narrator of your own life. It makes even small moments feel like a scene from a movie.
Don't Overdo It
If you use `此时` for every single sentence, you'll sound like you're reading a historical novel. Mix it with `现在` for a natural flow.
The Power of Four
Chinese people love symmetry. Expanding `此时` to `此时此刻` (cǐ shí cǐ kè) doubles the impact and is a secret weapon for sounding fluent during toasts or speeches.
Examples
6此时的景色真美。
The scenery at this moment is truly beautiful.
Adds a romantic, appreciative tone to the observation.
此时，我想分享一个故事。
At this moment, I would like to share a story.
Creates a professional and engaging opening.
我此时正在加班，晚点联系。
I'm working overtime at this moment, let's talk later.
Slightly more formal than '现在', showing you are seriously busy.
此时，我才发现衣服穿反了。
At this moment, I finally realized my clothes were on backward.
Uses a 'storyteller' tone to make the mistake funnier.
此时此刻，我非常激动。
At this very moment, I am very excited.
Uses the four-character version for maximum emotional impact.
此时不走，更待何时？
If we don't leave now, when will we?
A common rhetorical structure used for urgency.
Test Yourself
Choose the best word to describe a beautiful, significant moment during a wedding.
___，新郎和新娘都流下了眼泪。
‘此时’ is the most appropriate for narrating a specific, emotional moment in time.
Complete the emphatic phrase for 'at this very moment'.
此时___，我只想回家睡觉。
‘此时此刻’ is a fixed set phrase used to emphasize the current moment.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality of 'Now'
Daily chores, quick texts
现在 (xiànzài)
General storytelling, work updates
此时 (cǐshí)
Speeches, literature, ceremonies
此时此刻 (cǐshí cǐkè)
When to use 此时
Nature/Views
欣赏美景
Public Speaking
演讲开场
Storytelling
讲故事
Deep Feelings
表达情感
Practice Bank
2 exercises___，新郎和新娘都流下了眼泪。
‘此时’ is the most appropriate for narrating a specific, emotional moment in time.
此时___，我只想回家睡觉。
‘此时此刻’ is a fixed set phrase used to emphasize the current moment.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
11 questions现在 is the everyday word for 'now.' 此时 is more formal and literary, often used to highlight a specific, significant moment like 此时此刻，我很高兴.
Yes, but it usually implies a more serious or emotional tone. If you are just telling a friend you are at the mall, use 现在.
Absolutely. It’s a great way to transition to a new point, such as 此时，我们需要关注利润 (At this point, we need to focus on profit).
No, 此时 specifically refers to the present moment. To say 'at that time' in the past, you would use 那时 (nàshí).
It is an emphatic version of 此时. It literally means 'this time, this moment' and is used for strong emotional emphasis.
Only if you are being dramatic or poetic. If you want to order, say 现在点菜. If you are admiring the food, you could say 此时，我只想大吃一顿.
No, it is a standard, slightly formal collocation. It will never go out of style.
No, 此时 is for a specific moment in time. For 'this season,' you should use 这个季节.
Teachers often emphasize 现在 because it is more versatile for beginners. 此时 is a 'level up' word for B1 learners and above.
Not really. It is understood and used consistently across all Mandarin-speaking regions due to its literary roots.
Yes, it often appears before a verb phrase to describe what is happening right now, like 此时正在下雨 (It is raining at this moment).
Related Phrases
此刻 (cǐkè) - This very moment
现在 (xiànzài) - Now
当下 (dāngxià) - The present moment / immediately
此时此刻 (cǐshí cǐkè) - At this very moment (emphatic)
那时 (nàshí) - At that time
